Operator’s Manual
Contour Mower
VENTRAC.COM
Revised 04/13/21
09.10055 Rev. 18
Original Operator’s Manual
MJ840
2
To the Owner
If you need to contact an authorized Ventrac dealer for information on servicing your product, al-
ways provide the product model and serial numbers.
Please ll in the following information for future reference. See the picture(s) below to nd the loca-
tion of the identication numbers. Record them in the spaces provided.
Date of Purchase:
Dealer:
Dealer Address:
Dealer Phone Number:
Dealer Fax Number:
Model # (A): __________________________________
Serial # (B): ____________________________________
Venture Products Inc. reserves the right to make chang-
es in design or specications without obligation to make
like changes on previously manufactured products.
500 Venture Drive
Orrville Oh 44667
View all manuals
Visit ventrac.com/manuals for the
latest version of this operator’s
manual.
A downloadable parts manual is also
available.
A
B
TABLE OF CONTENTS
3
Product Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Why Do I Need an Operator’s Manual? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Using Your Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Manual Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
General Safety Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Training Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Requirements for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Operation Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Keep Riders O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Operating On Slopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Roadway Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Truck Or Trailer Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Fuel Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Hydraulic Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Cutting Unit Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Safety Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Deck Pivot Latch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Primary SDLA Control Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Secondary SDLA Control Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Daily Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Attaching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Detaching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Operating Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Transport of the Attachment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Cutting Height Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Outer Carrier Wheel Path Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Anti-Scalp Roller Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Mulching Kit (Optional Accessory) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4
Cleaning and General Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Deck Flip Up Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Mower Blade Inspection/Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Mower Blade Sharpening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Belt Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Attachment Drive Belt Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Gearbox Drive Belt Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Center Deck Belt Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Left Deck Belt Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Right Deck Belt Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Drive Belt Tension Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Lubrication Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Checking the Gearbox Oil Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Changing the Gearbox Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Deck Leveling Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Maintenance Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Introduction - 5
INTRODUCTION
Accessories
Item Description Part Number
MJ840 Mulching Kit 70.8087
Product Description
The MJ840 is designed for the sole purpose of nish mowing. The MJ840 features a 211 cm (83 inch) cutting
width with full rear rollers for even cutting and striping, rear discharge, and a ip-up deck design. The MJ840
features three independently oating decks that follow the contour of the terrain with up to 40 degrees of mo-
tion for each side deck.
Why Do I Need an Operator’s Manual?
This manual has been created to help you gain the important knowledge of what is needed to safely operate,
maintain, and service your machine. It is divided into sections for convenient reference of the appropriate sec-
tion.
You must read and understand the operator’s manual for each piece of Ventrac equipment you own. Reading
the operator’s manual will help you become familiar with each specic piece of equipment. Understanding
the operator’s manual will help you, as well as others, avoid personal injury and/or damage to the equipment.
Keep this manual with the machine at all times. The manual should remain with the machine even if it is sold.
If this manual becomes damaged or unreadable, it should be replaced immediately. Contact your local Ventrac
dealer for a replacement.
When using a Ventrac attachment, be sure to read and follow the safety and operating instructions of both the
power unit and the attachment being used to ensure the safest operation possible.
The information in this manual provides the operator with the safest procedures to operate the machine while
getting the maximum use out of the unit. Failure to follow the safety precautions listed in this manual may
result in personal injury and/or damage to the equipment.
Venture Products Inc. is pleased to provide you with your new
Ventrac contour mower! We hope that Ventrac equipment will
provide you with a ONE Tractor Solution.
Please visit our website, or contact your authorized Ventrac
dealer for a complete list of items available for your new contour
mower.
INTRODUCTION
Introduction - 6
Using Your Manual
Throughout this manual, you will encounter special
messages and symbols that identify potential safety
concerns to help you as well as others avoid personal
injury or damage to the equipment.
SYMBOL DEFINITIONS
ATTENTION
This symbol identies potential health and
safety hazards. It marks safety precautions.
Your safety and the safety of others is involved.
There are three signal words that describe the level of
safety concern: Danger, Warning, and Caution. Safety
should always be the rst priority when working on
or operating equipment. Accidents are more likely to
occur when proper operating procedures are not fol-
lowed or inexperienced operators are involved.
Note: Right-Hand and Left-Hand orientations may be
referred to at dierent places throughout this manual.
Right-Hand and Left-Hand is determined as if facing
forward from the operator station.
SIGNAL WORD DEFINITIONS
DANGER
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. This
signal word is limited to the most extreme cases.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury
and/or property damage. It may also be used to alert
against unsafe practices.
Manual Glossary
Power Unit A Ventrac tractor or other Ventrac engine powered device that may be operated by itself or with
an attachment or accessory.
Attachment A piece of Ventrac equipment that requires a Power Unit for operation.
Accessory A device that attaches to a Power Unit or Attachment to extend its capabilities.
Machine Describes any “Attachment” or “Accessory” that is used in conjunction with a power unit.
Safety - 7
SAFETY
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
Training Required
• The owner of this machine is solely responsible for properly training the operators.
• The owner/operator is solely responsible for the operation of this machine and for the prevention of ac-
cidents or injuries occurring to him/herself, other people, or property.
• Do not allow operation or service by children or untrained personnel. Local regulations may restrict the
age of the operator.
• Before operating this machine, read the operator’s manual and understand its contents.
• If the operator of the machine cannot understand this manual, then it is the responsibility of this machine’s
owner to fully explain the material within this manual to the operator.
• Learn and understand the use of all the controls.
• Know how to stop the power unit and the attachments quickly in the event of an emergency.
Requirements for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• The owner is responsible for ensuring that all the operators use the proper PPE while operating the ma-
chine. Whenever you use the machine, use the following PPE:
• Certied eye protection and hearing protection.
• Closed toe, slip resistant footwear.
• Long pants or trousers.
• A dust mask for dusty conditions.
Operation Safety
• Inspect the machine before operation. Repair or replace any damaged, worn, or missing parts. Be sure the
guards and shields are in proper working condition and are secured in place. Make any necessary adjust-
ments before operating the machine.
• Some pictures in this manual may show shields or covers opened or removed in order to clearly illustrate the
instructions. Under no circumstance should the machine be operated without these devices in place.
• Alterations or modications to this machine can reduce safety and could cause damage to the machine. Do
not alter the safety devices or operate with the shields or covers removed.
• Before each use, verify that all the controls function properly and inspect all the safety devices. Do not op-
erate if the controls or safety devices are not in proper working condition.
• Check the parking brake function before operating. Repair or adjust the parking brake if necessary.
• Observe and follow all of the safety decals.
• All the controls are to be operated from the operator’s station only.
SAFETY
Safety - 8
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
• Always wear a seat belt if the machine has a roll cage/bar installed and in the upright position.
• Ensure the attachment or accessory is locked or fastened securely to the power unit before operating.
• Ensure that all bystanders are clear of the power unit and the attachment before operating. Stop the ma-
chine if someone enters your work area.
• Always be alert to what is happening around you, but do not lose focus on the task you are performing.
Always look in the direction the machine is moving.
• Look behind and down before backing up to be sure of a clear path.
• If you hit an object, stop and inspect the machine. Make any necessary repairs before operating the ma-
chine again.
• Stop operation immediately at any sign of equipment failure. An unusual noise can be a warning of equipment
failure or a sign that maintenance is required. Make any necessary repairs before operating the machine again.
• If equipped with a high/low range feature, never shift between high and low range while on a slope. Always
move the machine to level ground and engage the parking brake before shifting range.
• Do not leave the machine unattended while it is running.
• Always park the machine on level ground.
• Always shut o the engine when connecting the attachment drive belt to the power unit.
• Never leave the operator’s station without lowering the attachment to the ground, engaging the parking
brake, shutting o the engine, and removing the ignition key. Make sure all moving parts have come to a
complete stop before dismounting.
• Never leave the machine unattended without lowering the attachment to the ground, engaging the park-
ing brake, shutting o the engine, and removing the ignition key.
• Only operate in well-lit conditions.
• Do not operate when there is a risk of lightning.
• Never direct the discharge of any attachment in the direction of people, buildings, animals, vehicles, or
other objects of value.
• Never discharge material against a wall or obstruction. The material may ricochet back toward the operator.
• Use extra caution when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure your vi-
sion.
• Do not run the engine in a building without adequate ventilation.
• Do not touch the engine or the muer while the engine is running or immediately after stopping the en-
gine. These areas may be hot enough to cause a burn.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive
speeds may increase the hazard of personal injury.
SAFETY
Safety - 9
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
• To reduce the hazard of re, keep the battery compartment, engine, and muer areas free of grass, leaves,
excessive grease, and other ammable materials.
• Secure long hair and loose clothing. Do not wear jewelry.
• Clear the working area of objects that might be hit or thrown from the machine.
• Keep people and pets out of the working area.
• Know the work area well before operation. Do not operate where traction or stability is questionable.
• Reduce speed when you are operating over rough ground.
• Equipment can cause serious injury and/or death
when improperly used. Before operating, know and understand the operation and safety of the power unit
and the attachment being used.
• Do not operate the machine if you are not in good physical and mental health, if you will be distracted by
personal devices, or if you are under the inuence of any substance which might impair your decisions,
dexterity, or judgment.
• Children are attracted to machine activity. Be aware of children and do not allow them in the work area.
Turn o the machine if a child enters the work area.
• Only allow the operator on the power unit. Keep riders o.
• Never allow riders on any attachment or accessory.
Operating On Slopes
• Slopes can cause loss-of-control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Be familiar
with the emergency parking brake, along with the power unit controls and their functions.
• If the power unit is equipped with a fold down roll bar, it must be locked in the upright position when operating
on any slope.
• Use low range (if equipped) when operating on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
• Do not stop or start suddenly when operating on slopes.
• Never shift between high and low range while on a slope. Always move the power unit to level ground and
engage the parking brake before shifting range or placing the power unit in neutral.
• Variables such as wet surfaces and loose ground will reduce the degree of safety. Do not drive where the
machine could lose traction or tip over.
• Keep alert for hidden hazards in the terrain.
• Stay away from drop-os, ditches, and embankments.
• Sharp turns should be avoided when operating on slopes.
SAFETY
Safety - 10
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
• Pulling loads on hills decreases safety. It is the responsibility of the owner/operator to determine loads that
can safely be controlled on slopes.
• Transport the machine with the attachment lowered or close to the ground to improve stability.
• While operating on slopes, drive in an up and down direction whenever possible. If turning is necessary
while driving across slopes, reduce your speed and turn slowly in the downhill direction.
• Ensure a sucient supply of fuel for continuous operation. A minimum of one-half tank of fuel is recommended.
Roadway Safety
• Operate with safety lights when operating on or near roadways.
• Obey all state and local laws concerning operation on roadways.
• Slow down and be careful of trac when operating near or crossing roadways. Stop before crossing roads
or sidewalks. Use care when approaching areas or objects that may obscure vision.
• If there is any doubt of safety conditions, discontinue the machine operation until a time when the opera-
tion can be performed safely.
• When operating near or on roadways, have a Slow Moving Vehicle Emblem clearly displayed.
Truck Or Trailer Transport
• Use care when loading or unloading the machine into a truck or trailer.
• Use full width ramps for loading the machine into a truck or trailer.
• The parking brake is not sucient to lock the machine during transport. Always secure the power unit and/
or attachment to the transporting vehicle securely using straps, chains, cables, or ropes. Both the front and
rear straps should be directed down and outward from the machine.
• Shut o the fuel supply to the power unit during transport on a truck or trailer.
• If equipped, turn the battery disconnect switch to the O position to shut o electrical power.
Maintenance
• Keep the safety decals legible. Remove all grease, dirt, and debris from the safety decals and instructional labels.
• If any decals are faded, illegible, or missing, contact your dealer promptly for replacements.
• When new components are installed, be sure that the current safety decals are axed to the replacement
components.
• If any component requires replacement, use only original Ventrac replacement parts.
• Always turn the battery disconnect to the O position or disconnect the battery before performing any re-
pairs. Disconnect the negative terminal rst and the positive terminal last. Reconnect the positive terminal
rst and the negative terminal last.
SAFETY
Safety - 11
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
• Keep all bolts, nuts, screws, and other fasteners properly tightened.
• Always lower the attachment to the ground, engage the parking brake, shut o the engine, and remove the
ignition key. Make sure all moving parts have come to a complete stop before cleaning, inspecting, adjust-
ing, or repairing.
• If the power unit, attachment, or accessory requires repairs or adjustments not instructed in the operator’s
manual, the power unit, attachment, or accessory must be taken to an authorized Ventrac dealer for service.
• Never perform maintenance on the power unit and/or attachment if someone is in the operator’s station.
• Always use protective glasses when handling the battery.
• Check the fuel lines for tightness and wear on a regular basis. Tighten or repair them as needed.
• To reduce the hazard of re, keep the battery compartment, engine, and muer areas free of grass, leaves,
and excess grease.
• Do not touch the engine, the muer, or other exhaust components while the engine is running or immedi-
ately after stopping the engine. These areas may be hot enough to cause a burn.
• Allow the engine to cool before storing and do not store near an open ame.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. Operating engine at excessive
speeds may increase the hazard of personal injury.
• Springs may contain stored energy. Use caution when disengaging or removing springs and/or spring
loaded components.
• An obstruction or blockage in a drive system or moving/rotating parts may cause a buildup of stored en-
ergy. When the obstruction or blockage is removed, the drive system or moving/rotating parts may move
suddenly. Do not attempt to remove an obstruction or blockage with your hands. Keep your hands, feet,
and clothing away from all power-driven parts.
Fuel Safety
• To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
ammable and the vapors are explosive.
• Do not refuel the machine while smoking or at a location near ames or sparks.
• Always refuel the machine outdoors.
• Do not store the machine or fuel container indoors where the fumes or fuel can reach an open ame,
spark, or pilot light.
• Only store fuel in an approved container. Keep out of the reach of children.
• Never ll containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place the containers
on the ground away from your vehicle before lling.
SAFETY
Safety - 12
General Safety Procedures
for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories
• Remove the machine from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, refuel the
machine using a portable container, rather than from a fuel dispenser nozzle.
• Never remove the fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
• Never remove the fuel cap while on a slope. Only remove the fuel cap when parked on a level surface.
• Replace the fuel tank cap and the container cap securely.
• Do not overll the fuel tank. Only ll to the bottom of the fuel neck, do not ll the fuel neck full. Overlling
of the fuel tank could result in engine ooding, fuel leakage from the tank, and/or damage to the emissions
control system.
• If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine. Move the power unit away from the fuel spill and avoid
creating any source of ignition until the fuel vapors have dissipated.
• If the fuel tank must be drained, it should be drained outdoors into an approved container.
• Check the fuel lines for tightness and wear on a regular basis. Tighten or repair them as needed.
• The fuel system is equipped with a shut-o valve. Shut o the fuel when transporting the machine to and
from the job, when parking the machine indoors, or when servicing the fuel system.
Hydraulic Safety
• Make sure the hydraulic connections are tight and all hydraulic hoses and tubes are in good condition. Re-
pair any leaks and replace any damaged or deteriorated hoses or tubes before starting the machine.
• Hydraulic leaks can occur under high pressure. Hydraulic leaks require special care and attention.
• Use a piece of cardboard and a magnifying glass to locate suspected hydraulic leaks.
• Keep your body and hands away from pinhole leaks or nozzles that eject high pressure hydraulic uid. Hy-
draulic uid escaping under high pressure can penetrate the skin causing serious injury, leading to severe
complications and/or secondary infections if left untreated. If hydraulic uid is injected into the skin, seek
immediate medical attention no matter how minor the injury appears.
• The hydraulic system may contain stored energy. Before performing maintenance or repairs on the hydrau-
lic system, remove any attachments, engage the parking brake, disengage the weight transfer system (if
equipped), shut o the engine, and remove the ignition key. To relieve pressure on the auxiliary hydraulic
system, shut o the power unit engine and move the hydraulic control lever left and right before disconnect-
ing the auxiliary hydraulic quick couplers.
SAFETY
Safety - 13
MJ840 Safety Procedures
• The attachment hydraulic system may contain stored energy. Before performing maintenance or repairs
on the hydraulic system, the attachment’s auxiliary hydraulic hoses must be disconnected from the power
unit. Lower the attachment to the ground, shut o power unit engine, move the secondary SDLA lever left
and right to relieve auxiliary hydraulic pressure, and disconnect the auxiliary hydraulic quick couplers.
Cutting Unit Safety
• Rotating Blade Hazard: Contact with the rotating mower blades or other moving parts may cause personal
injury. Keep your hands and feet away.
• Rotation of one blade may cause another blade to rotate.
• Thrown Object Hazard: Do not direct the mower discharge toward people, animals, or buildings. Never
operate with the deector(s) removed.
• Always shut o the PTO to stop the mower blades whenever you are not mowing, especially when crossing
loose terrain such as gravel.
• Never raise the mower deck with the blades running.
SAFETY
Safety - 14
Safety Decals
The following safety decals must be maintained on your attachment.
Keep all safety decals legible. Remove all grease, dirt, and debris from safety decals and instructional labels. If
any decals are faded, illegible, or missing, contact your dealer promptly for replacements.
When new components are installed, be sure that current safety decals are axed to the replacement compo-
nents.
A
A
A
B
C
C
C
C
D
E
E
F
F
C
SAFETY
Safety - 15
Decal Description Part Number Quantity
A Shield Missing 00.0625 3
B Entanglement Hazard 00.0626 1
C Cutting Hazard Mower Blade 00.0628 5
D Read Operator’s Manual 00.0619 1
E Warning, Pinch Point 00.0364 2
F Thrown Object Hazard 00.0633 2
A B
C D
E F
Shield missing - do not operate.
Pinching/crushing hazard.
Fingers or hand entanglement.
Fingers or hand entanglement.
Stay away from moving parts.
Keep all guards and shields in place.
Cutting/dismemberment hazard of hand or foot, mower blade.
Stay away from moving parts.
Keep all guards and shields in place.
Warning - Read operator’s manual.
Pinching or crushing hazard.
Stay away from moving parts.
Thrown object hazard.
Keep bystanders away from the machine.
Do not operate with the deector belting removed.
Operation - 16
OPERATIONAL CONTROLS
Deck Pivot Latch
A
The deck pivot latch (A) performs two functions:
1. It enables the deck to pivot throughout the range of
the operating position.
2. It locks the deck in the upright service position for
service and maintenance.
Primary SDLA Control Lever
Pull the power unit’s primary SDLA lever* to the left to
raise the power unit front hitch and the mower deck.
Push the lever to the right to lower the power unit front
hitch and the mower deck. The lever must be in the oat
(detent) position during operation of the mower. Float
position is attained by pushing the lever to the right until
the oat detent locks the lever in place.
Secondary SDLA Control Lever
Pull the power unit’s secondary SDLA lever* to the left
to raise the left and right deck wing lift arms (A). Push
the power unit’s secondary SDLA lever to the right to
lower the left and right deck wing lift arms. When mow-
ing, fully extend the lift arm control links (B) to allow for
maximum up and down motion of the left and right
mower decks.
A
B
Weight Transfer
Terrain and ground conditions may aect the ap-
propriate setting for the power unit’s weight transfer
system. In most cases, the weight transfer system*
should be set from 1/2 to 3/4 of the maximum capac-
ity.
*Refer to power unit operator’s manual for operation of power unit controls.
Operation - 17
GENERAL OPERATION
Daily Inspection
WARNING
Always engage the parking brake, shut o the pow-
er unit engine, remove the ignition key, and ensure
that all moving parts have come to a complete stop
before inspecting the components, or attempting
any repair or adjustment.
1. Park the machine on a level surface, with the en-
gine shut o and all uids cold.
2. Perform a visual inspection of both the power
unit and the attachment. Look for loose or miss-
ing hardware, damaged components, or signs of
wear.
3. Inspect the hydraulic hoses and the hydraulic t-
tings to ensure tight, leak free connections.
4. Inspect the belts for damage or excessive wear.
Refer to the Belt Inspection section of this manual.
5. Inspect the mower blades and the mower blade
mounting bolts. The blades should be sharp and
securely fastened. Service as required.
Attaching
1. Drive the power unit slowly forward into the hitch
arms of the attachment. Align the lift arms of the
power unit with the attachment hitch arms by
raising or lowering the front hitch and complete
the engagement.
2. Once completely engaged, close the front hitch
locking lever.*
3. Engage the parking brake* and shut o the en-
gine.
4. Place the attachment belt onto the PTO drive pul-
ley on the power unit. Ensure the belt is properly
seated in each pulley.
5. Engage the PTO belt tensioner rod.
6. Wipe the hose ends clean and connect to the
power unit’s hydraulic quick couplers. If equipped,
connect the hoses and the quick couplers so the
colored indicators are paired together (red to red,
etc.).
Detaching
1. Park the power unit on a level surface and engage
the parking brake.*
2. Lower the attachment to the ground.
3. Shut o the power unit engine.
4. Disengage the PTO belt tensioner rod.
5. Remove the attachment belt from the PTO drive
pulley of the power unit.
6. Move the secondary SDLA lever side to side tor
relieve any pressure in the auxiliary hoses. Discon-
nect the hydraulic quick couplers from the power
unit and store the hose ends on the attachment
where the couplers will be free of contamination.
7. Disengage the front hitch locking lever.*
8. Restart the power unit and slowly back away from
the attachment. A side to side movement of the
steering wheel may aid in disengagement.
Operating Procedure
Before operation, perform the daily inspection and
conrm the mower deck cutting height and the power
unit’s weight transfer system are set properly.
Inspect the mowing area and remove rocks, sticks,
and any other objects that could be thrown by the
machine or become entangled in the blades.
Lower the mower deck to the ground and place the
power unit’s primary SDLA lever in the oat position
by pushing it to the right until the detent engages.
The lever will stay in this position until intentionally
removed.
With the power unit engine running between 2,000
and 3,000 RPM, engage the PTO switch, then adjust
the throttle to the desired engine RPM.
Begin forward motion in the desired mowing path.
Avoid obstacles and remove debris as necessary.
When the edge of the mowing area is reached, turn
the power unit and the mower around and align for
the next pass.
Mowing in a back and forth pattern, where each mow-
ing pass is made in the opposite direction of the pass
beside it, will create a stripe pattern in the grass. The
full length rear roller rolls the grass in the direction of
travel to further enhance the stripe eect.
*Refer to power unit operator’s manual for operation of power unit controls.
GENERAL OPERATION
Operation - 18
Transport of the Attachment
Transport the attachment with the power unit front
hitch and attachment, along with the left and right
mower decks, fully raised to reduce wear of the equip-
ment. Travel slowly when transporting over undulat-
ing and rough surfaces to maintain control of the
power unit and to reduce the shock to the power unit
and the attachment. Always disengage the power unit
PTO before transporting the attachment.
Cutting Height Adjustment
The cutting height of the mower decks is controlled
by the setting of the front caster wheels and the deck
rear rollers. All the wheels and rear rollers must be set
to the same cutting height position.
1. Flip the decks up to the service position. Refer to
the Deck Flip Up Procedure in this manual.
2. Determine the desired cutting height. Refer to the
decals on the left and right sides of the mower for
the cutting heights and positions.
3.
Position Inch mm
All rollers and wheels
must be on the same
setting before use.
Remove the four caster wheel axle bolts and rein-
stall at the desired cutting height position. Torque
the bolts to 42 Nm (31 ft-lbs).
4. Remove the two bolts securing the rear roller
brackets to the deck (one bolt on each side) and
reinstall at the desired cutting height position.
Torque the bolts to 42 Nm (31 ft-lbs). This step
must be performed on all three decks.
Outer Carrier Wheel Path Adjustment
The caster wheels on the left and right mower decks
can be repositioned for dierent applications.
For maximum deck overhang, mount the wheel
frames in the furthest inboard position.
For maximum pass-to-pass consistency and to achieve
the best cut quality, mount the wheel frames in the
furthest outboard position.
The left and right wheel frames may be set dierently
from each other as the application requires.
After repositioning the wheel frames, torque the
mounting bolts to 42 Nm (31 ft-lbs).
Anti-Scalp Roller Adjustment
The ve anti-scalp rollers on the MJ840 have three
mounting positions. The correct mounting position is
dependent on the cutting height setting of the mow-
er. To prevent scalping, mount all ve rollers in the
same recommended position.
1
2
3
When the cutting height is set from 19 mm (3/4 inch)
to 32 mm (1-1/4 inches), mount the anti-scalp rollers
in position 1.
When the cutting height is set from 36 mm (1-1/2
inches) to 57 mm (2-1/4 inches), mount the anti-scalp
rollers in position 2.
When the cutting height is set from 64 mm (2-1/2
inches) to 89 mm (3-1/2 inches), mount the anti-scalp
rollers in position 3.
Torque the roller mounting bolts to 102 Nm (75 ft-lbs).
GENERAL OPERATION
Operation - 19
Mulching Kit (Optional Accessory)
Mulching procedures may vary greatly due to the
climate, the type of grass, and the soil conditions. It
is generally best to mow frequently and in dry condi-
tions. Leaves are usually mulched and dispersed bet-
ter when some grass is cut with the leaves.
Mulching often requires more power than normal
mowing. When mulching wet and/or thick grass, more
frequent cleaning of the underside of the deck is
necessary.
For the best results, keep the mower blades sharp
and in good condition.
Service - 20
SERVICE
WARNING
Always engage the parking brake, shut o the pow-
er unit engine, remove the ignition key, and ensure
that all moving parts have come to a complete stop
before inspecting the components, or attempting
any repair or adjustment.
ATTENTION
If any component requires replacement, use only
original Ventrac replacement parts.
Cleaning and General Maintenance
For best results, and to maintain the nish of the
mower, clean or wash the mower to remove accumu-
lated clippings, leaves, and dirt when the job is n-
ished. Refer to the Deck Flip Up Procedure to access
the underside of the deck.
If washing the mower, do not spray directly into the
bearings or seals. After washing, it is important to run
the mower so that water does not reside on the seals
or bearings for the drive system. When washing is
complete, return the deck to the operating position.
Move the power unit and mower to a clean, debris-
free location and activate the PTO for 30 seconds to
remove any standing water.
Deck Flip Up Procedure
1. Park the power unit and mower on a smooth, level
surface.
2. Raise the power unit front hitch to its highest posi-
tion.
3. Engage the parking brake, shut o the engine, and
remove the ignition key.
4. Move the deck pivot latch toward the front of the
deck to disengage, then lift the mower deck up to a
near vertical position.
5. Release the deck pivot latch to lock the deck in the
upright position.
6. To return the deck to the operating position, lift up
on the front of the deck, move the deck pivot latch
toward the front of the deck to disengage, and
lower the deck to the operating position.
7. Engage the gearbox drive belt tensioning spring.
CAUTION
The mower blades may be sharp. Always wear
heavy gloves when working with the mower blades.
1. Flip the mower deck up to the service position.
2. Inspect the mower blades to ensure the cutting
edges are sharp. If the blades are dull or dam-
aged, they must be removed and sharpened or
replaced.
3. Place a short piece of 2 x 4 wood between the end
of the blade and an appropriate structural part of
the deck frame to prevent the blade from rotating.
4. For the three right hand blades, loosen the blade
bolt counterclockwise and remove the blade for
sharpening or replacement.
5. For the three left hand blades, loosen the blade
bolt clockwise and remove the blade for sharpen-
ing or replacement.
6. When installing a blade, the wood block must be
placed on the opposite side of the blade to pre-
vent blade rotation when tightening the blade
bolt.
7. Torque the blade bolt to 102-108 Nm (75-80 ft-lbs).
Mower Blade Sharpening
The mower blades should be sharpened and balanced
by a professional. Maintain the balance, the same
bevel, and the length of the sharpened surface.
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